We've come a long way in the past 100 days, driving 20,000kms through 10 countries. And along the way Sam has been amazing. Through thick and thin, Sam has been an great travel companion. It has been a rewarding experience. But it has not always been easy.

We have met far fewer families than we expected along the way, and so Sam has had relatively few kids to play with (hanging with Dylan in Nairobi and with Myles and Caleb in Addis were the much-enjoyed exceptions).

Sam was not able to bring much of his stuff along. Each of us could fill one of the boxes pictured here (50.5cm x 55cm x 22cm) including clothes and whatever else we wanted to bring along. Any souvenirs he wanted also had to fit in the same box.

We have slept in some pretty rough places (mostly in the Sudan), we have eaten some bad food (mostly in the Sudan), we have had some long driving days (mostly in Zambia) and driven some rough roads (the Nyika Plateau in Malawi, northern Kenya and southern Ethiopia). We have had some unmet expectations (the amazing pool in Namibia, lacking only water; or the great sushi restaurant that was "supposed" to exist in Khartoum; or museums with cool stuff to see that were closed for Eid or for renovations or for no obvious or communicable reason). We have had many many days without wifi, and some days without electricity (even during the soccer World Cup). Sam has battled stomach bugs, windy roads, sleepless nights, 45c heat, occasionally (but only rarely) stressed parents, obsessive picture-taking, and even the common cold. And he bounces back from all of it, makes do and even has fun with what there is around him, and gets interested in the next place.

So we wanted to say thanks. And we chose an all-inclusive water park resort on the Red Sea in Egypt as a way to do it. Below are some pictures of the place and the experience. Thanks Sam!

Well done Sam! Let us know if you plan to dip your toes in the Mediterranean to mark the end of the journey.
GG59TH

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Uncle Dave

15/8/2014 08:51:54 am

Wow, what a trip!!! Thanks very much Sam for keeping us all updated on your journey. Thanks for also keeping your mum and dad safe. Can't wait to see all the photos when I see you next. Love you. Uncle Dave.

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Erna and Henry

16/8/2014 11:34:42 pm

Thanks Sam. We enjoyed all the updates on your trip through your blog. You are a great traveler. We are looking forward to a hug at the airport in Ottawa. Your grandparents who love you.

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Sam (and his Mum and Dad) want to tell you a bit about their drive from south to north Africa